If you’re craving a hearty, comforting dish that basically cooks itself, this Crockpot Pierogi Sausage Casserole is exactly what you need. Loaded with tender pierogies, smoky sausage, melty cheddar cheese, and a creamy mushroom sauce, this slow cooker casserole brings all the cozy Eastern European flavors with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weekdays, potlucks, or chilly evenings, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that delivers rich, satisfying flavor in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Incredibly easy—just layer, cover, and let the crockpot do the work
- Family-friendly comfort food with simple, accessible ingredients
- Flexible: use any pierogi filling you like
- Great for feeding a crowd or meal prepping
- Creamy, cheesy, smoky, and irresistibly hearty
Ingredients
- Frozen pierogies (900 g): A hearty base that turns soft and tender as they cook.
- Smoked sausage (450 g, sliced): Adds smoky, savory richness.
- Onion (1 medium, diced): Builds aromatic flavor when sautéed.
- Cheddar cheese (200 g, shredded): Melts into the sauce for creamy goodness.
- Sour cream (240 ml): Adds tang and creaminess.
- Milk (120 ml, whole or 2%): Thins the sauce to the perfect consistency.
- Unsalted butter (2 tbsp): Used to sauté onions and add richness.
- Cream of mushroom soup (300 g): Forms the creamy casserole sauce.
- Garlic powder (½ tsp): Enhances seasoning with savory depth.
- Black pepper (½ tsp): Balances flavors with mild heat.
- Smoked paprika (¼ tsp): Provides subtle smokiness and color.
- Fresh parsley: Adds a fresh, colorful finish.
How to Make Crockpot Pierogi Sausage Casserole
Prep the Crockpot
Grease the inside of your slow cooker with non-stick spray or a small amount of butter to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Sauté the Onions
In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onions and sauté for 3–4 minutes, or until translucent and fragrant.
Mix the Creamy Sauce
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the condensed cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, black pepper, and smoked paprika until smooth.
Layer the Ingredients
Place half of the frozen pierogies into the bottom of the slow cooker. Add half the sliced sausage, sautéed onions, and shredded cheddar. Pour half the prepared sauce evenly over the layer.
Repeat with the remaining ingredients, finishing with a cheese layer on top.
Cook the Casserole
Cover and cook:
- Low: 3 to 4 hours
- High: 2 to 3 hours
The casserole is done when the pierogies are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbling.
Serve
Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley and serve piping hot.
Tips for Success
- Don’t thaw the pierogies—they cook best from frozen.
- Layer ingredients evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
- Use freshly shredded cheddar for smoother melting.
- Stir halfway through cooking if you want a more incorporated texture.
Equipment Needed
- Slow cooker / crockpot
- Small saucepan
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Knife and cutting board
Recipe Variations
- Mushroom Upgrade: Add sautéed mushrooms for an earthy twist.
- Spicy Version: Use spicy sausage or add chili flakes.
- Veggie Boost: Add frozen peas, spinach, or diced bell peppers.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a crisp green salad to balance the richness.
- Pair with roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or carrots.
- Add a side of crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Garnish with extra cheddar or a dollop of sour cream.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pierogies instead of frozen?
Yes, but reduce cooking time slightly, as fresh pierogies soften faster.
What kind of sausage works best?
Smoked sausage is ideal, but kielbasa, turkey sausage, or even chicken sausage all work well.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prep the layers in the crockpot insert, refrigerate, and cook later. Add 15–20 extra minutes to cook time.
How should I store leftovers?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Freezing is not ideal due to sour cream and cheese, which may separate once thawed.
Crockpot Pierogi Sausage Casserole
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes or 3 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A hearty and simple casserole made with frozen pierogies, smoked sausage, and a creamy mushroom sauce, all cooked in a crockpot for easy preparation.
Ingredients
- 900 g frozen pierogies (potato, cheese, or onion filling)
- 450 g smoked sausage, sliced into 1.25 cm rounds
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 200 g shredded cheddar cheese
- 240 ml sour cream
- 120 ml whole milk or 2% milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 300 g condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 0.25 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Grease the interior of the slow cooker with non-stick spray or a small amount of butter.
- Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add diced onions and sauté for 3–4 minutes until translucent.
- In a bowl, whisk together condensed cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, pepper, and smoked paprika until smooth.
- Arrange half the frozen pierogies at the bottom of the slow cooker. Top with half the sausage, sautéed onions, and cheddar. Pour in half the sauce. Repeat layers, finishing with cheese.
- Cover and cook on low for 3–4 hours or on high for 2–3 hours, until pierogies are tender and cheese is melted.
- Sprinkle chopped parsley before serving. Serve hot.
Notes
- Customize the pierogi filling based on preference.
- Serve as a main dish or side dish.
- For extra flavor, add cooked bacon bits or sautéed mushrooms.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 to 4 hours on low or 2 to 3 hours on high
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Eastern European
Conclusion
This Crockpot Pierogi Sausage Casserole is the definition of effortless comfort food. With layers of creamy sauce, tender pierogies, smoky sausage, and melty cheese, it turns simple ingredients into a cozy, satisfying meal the whole family will love. Whether you’re preparing a weekday dinner or feeding a crowd, this slow cooker favorite delivers every time. Give it a try and enjoy the warm, hearty flavors in every bite!